Venue Search Tips

We’ve done the legwork of sorting the bland from the wow, with each venue in the Coco Collection handpicked for its unique style and quality – but deciding which wedding venue is perfect for you can feel like a bit of a minefield…

So, we’re taking the guesswork out of it with these essential tips and questions you need to ask to help you get the most from your venue search. Use it as a tool to make sure you cover the important stuff – print the page to take with you on visits, scribble notes, and focus on finding the place that feels magic.

Before You Start

Be a team - Let’s face it, as you plan your wedding, there are probably going to be areas that one of you is more passionate about than the other. And we all have our strengths and weaknesses. But when it comes to choosing your wedding venue, this should absolutely be a joint task. As planning goes, it’s the biggest commitment you’ll make early on and you should both feel excited and connected about the place you choose. So, enjoy these precious moments together folks… and have fun on your super romantic road trips!

Get organised - With so many details to consider, organisation is your friend. Start by creating a spreadsheet of venues to visit - I think 4 in one day is the max as it can become overwhelming. And don’t be tempted to take an entourage on visits, this is about the two of you, and too many opinions can be really confusing. After you’ve got a shortlist, then it’s a great idea to talk to the people who really get you, to help sort through your own thoughts about each delicious venue you’ve seen!

The Basics
Questions To Ask

Be happy with the entire space - see all rooms available for your wedding party and make sure each one suits your wedding style.

Logistics
Questions To Ask

Spend some time getting to know the area. It’s great to make recommendations to your out-of-town guests wanting to make a weekend of it!

Accommodation
Questions To Ask

Always see the bedrooms offered for your wedding party and guests. Your photographer will no doubt be with you when you’re getting ready, and if you’re staying in the venue the night before you want the rooms to be gorgeous for these shots (and of course functional! Long mirror for the bride anyone?)

Planning the Details
Questions To Ask

Ask to see photographs of previous weddings and the kind of style/level of detail they had at the venue. If your venue is a blank canvas this can also help you start to get a sense of the feel of your own wedding.

Indoor / Outdoor
Questions To Ask

If you are considering a venue that is flexible about which kind of marquee you have, ask the marquee company that you wish to hire from if you can see one of their marquees up at your chosen venue, or at another one if they haven’t got any booked.

T&C's

Check the fine print - Nobody likes talking business, but this one’s important. If you can, take home a copy of the venue T&Cs after your first visit so you can consider your decision with your heart and your head. And make sure you’re both completely clear on the costs of the venue before signing on the pretty dotted line.

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